New Biz: Edge brings new retail to western downtown

Downtown is getting a new retailer in Edge Boutique and bringing with it, more business for the westside of downtown.

Edge Boutique opened about a month ago at 224 W. Hancock Ave. down from Ciné and the National.

"I liked the location because the price was cheap and I'm not locked in to a month-to-month lease," said Audrey Venditto, owner of Edge Boutique.

"I also think this part of town is growing. With Ciné and the National here, people have another place to go on this side of downtown," Venditto said.

Venditto has been an Athens native since 1986 and previously worked as a General Manager in her father's running apparel store, One More Mile, in Madison County.

"I'm most excited about getting the chance to control my own destiny. Whether I succeed or fail is on me and not having a boss is great," Venditto said.

Edge offers a 10 percent discount to shoppers who bring in a receipt from Ciné, the National or another downtown restaurant. Sorority members will also receive 10 percent off and Edge offers a registry for all dress purchases.

"I definitely want to support local businesses so we have the discounts, and Edge is a great place for sorority girls to get their spring formal and rush dresses," Venditto said.

Venditto focuses on having fresh merchandise in the store, as well.

"You can find things here that you won't find anywhere else because we turn our inventory quickly. I only buy one set of anything so we will always have new dresses in," Venditto said.

Edge is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Dresses range from about $30 to $50.

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